Municipality of Colchester NEWSLETTER
Inside this issue: May 2021 Volume 26 Issue 2
A Message from the From the Mayor’s Desk RCMP 3 Colchester Honours and Remembers the Lives Lost, April 2020: Public Works 3 On April 18 and 19, the Municipality of Colchester honoured and remembered the 22 lives and unborn Waste Resource 4 child that were so senselessly taken from us one year Management ago. Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims’ families, loved ones and all who were impacted.
Community The grieving process relating to this tragedy has been 7 Development very difficult for many, both due to the extreme nature of the tragedy and to the pandemic and inability to
gather in larger groups. Many remain traumatized and Recreation 9 will continue to grieve and heal, individually, in their own way, in their own time, along with those around Colchester Regional them who offer love and support. EMO 12 The anniversary was a time to acknowledge and remember the lives of those lost, and to recognize the courage and resilience of those most deeply affected.
In remembrance, the Municipality lowered flags at its facilities to half-mast and lit the Municipal Office, the visitor centre at the Fundy Discovery Site, and the Five Islands Lighthouse, in blue. Other organizations and community members were encouraged to join in similar expressions of observance that included hanging flags in windows and tying Nova Scotia tartan to mailboxes.
Many participated in the Nova Scotia Remembers Memorial Race, Commemorative Walk, and viewed the touching Memorial Ceremony that was televised nationwide. These opportunities to grieve together were important to the healing of our communities, though were indeed a reminder of how deeply we remain affected today.
It has been apparent by the outpouring of love and support received from around the province, country and the world, that this tragedy has greatly impacted many. We have been humbled by the show of kindness and support that Colchester has received. The Municipality of Colchester thanks all who have offered condolences, kind gestures, expressions of remembrance, and donations to support the community and the families of Housing the victims. All have been a light that has helped restore and lift spirits during a very dark Survey and difficult time. Page 7 My heart goes out to each of you who continue to grieve and to heal. May we all find comfort and solace in those around us both now and in the days ahead. My sincere Page 2 Municipality of Colchester condolences. Permanent Memorial: It is with the deepest respect that the Municipalities of Colchester, Cumberland, East Hants and Halifax Regional Municipality wish to discuss a permanent memorial with family representatives. We will be reaching out to you in the near future. Our Colchester Volunteers: National Volunteer Week was held April 18 to 24, 2021. It was a time to celebrate and thank our many volunteers in Colchester County, and in Nova Scotia, in recognition of their contributions to our communities. Volunteering is a selfless act. Volunteers expect nothing in return for their countless hours, sharing their skills and experience to help others. In Nova Scotia, we are told over 52 percent of Nova Scotians volunteer their time in some way. While they enjoy the camaraderie of a team effort, or the gratification of helping others, they inspire us, give strength to our communities and truly make a difference.
Each year, pre-COVID times, in a cooperative event at which we partner with the Town of Truro, we celebrate with our volunteers and recognized each personally. With COVID restrictions and health directives, we’ve had to change from that in-person event.
In Colchester County for 2021, we are recognizing 23 volunteers, plus six 50+ year recipients in our fire service. Along with the many charitable and non-profits, service clubs and various other organizations in our County, Colchester is very fortunate to have 17 fire brigades, and the Colchester Ground Search & Rescue team, all of whom are dedicated volunteers.
2021 Fire Service Recipients are: from the Salmon River Fire Brigade; Robert Taylor (60 years), Hermine Langille (55 years), Don McGill (55 years) and Kenny Campbell (50 years). From the Brookfield Fire and Emergency Service; Herb MacFarlane (55 years) and Charlie Burnett (55 years).
On behalf of our Council, staff and residents in Colchester County, I want to thank each and every one of you for your time, and your many contributions to our communities. COVID-19: We are now into our second year like no other we have ever experienced due to COVID-19. We are faced with increased numbers of cases in our province, which is considered to be the safest province in the country, thanks to our own Dr. Robert Strang, his team of professionals, the backing of the provincial government, and our own strength and determination. We must remain vigilant. Continue to follow the health directives, get vaccinated as soon as possible, continue social distancing and wearing masks.
As a Municipality, Colchester continues to follow all the health protocols as directed. Please stay safe. We will persevere. In Closing: We are beginning to see some warmer weather, despite a few cooler days and some snowflakes in the air. It’s good to have spring here again. Spring is a time for renewal, rejuvenation, for brighter days, and for optimism. Enjoy each day!
Christine Blair, Mayor MayMay 2021 2021 Page 3 A Message From the RCMP
Public Works
Tips and Reminders for your Sewer Connections
If you are connecting to municipal sewer, please remember the following:
A sewer permit is required for all new connections and repairs/replacements of old connections; Inspections are required for all connections; Pipe and fittings must be constructed of 100 mm diameter gasketed PVC SDR35; A clean-out must be installed at the property line, and every 30 metres after this; No right-angle junctions can be used; The pipe must be laid at a grade of 2%; A back-flow check valve must be installed inside the structure in an accessible location; and, A sewer lateral must be a minimum of 15.2 metres from a drilled well or can be reduced to 3 metres only if the sewer lateral is double lined. Page 4 Municipality of Colchester
Waste Resource Management
Waste Reduction Helpline: 902-895-4777 Website: www.colchester.ca Twitter: @ColchesterWRM Facebook: Colchester WRM
Colchester Balefill Facility Materials Recovery Facility 188 Mingo Road, Exit 18 185 Mingo Road, Exit 18 Highway 104 Kemptown Highway 104 Kemptown Hours of Operation: Hours of Operation: Monday to Friday 8:00 am to 4:00 pm Monday to Friday 8:00 am to 4:00 pm Saturday 8:00 am to 12:00 pm
Reminder: All visitors must report to the Scalehouse prior to unloading materials. The Scalehouse operator can accept cash, a personal cheque, or Interac as payment for disposal. The Scalehouse is not equipped with a credit card machine. All loads must be tarped to prevent litter problems. Untarped loads will be subject to a $20 surcharge.
AFTER HOURS DUMPING IS STRICTLY PROHIBITED. As per Chapter 33, Solid Waste By-law, no person shall place, cause to be placed or permit to be placed any solid waste at or adjacent to a municipal solid waste management facility when the facility is not open. This violation carries a penalty of up to $5,000.
The Balefill and Materials Recovery Facilities will be closed on Monday, May 24th for Victoria Day, Thursday, July 1st for Canada Day, Monday, August 2nd for the Civic Holiday and Monday, September 6th for Labour Day.
Important Holiday Collection Change Notice
Residents whose normal collection is scheduled for Thursday, July 1st Canada Day – due to the Holiday, your collection will take place on Monday, July 5th. Please refer to your waste collection schedule for details or download our FREE Colchester Waste app. Material must be curbside by 7:00 am on your collection day.
Litter
Litter is still an ongoing problem in our society. There are programs such as the Great Nova Scotia Pick-Me-Up where citizens and groups can be outfitted with bags for free to do a community clean up.
You can register your clean-up with the Great Nova Scotia Pick-Me-Up. They provide you with documents to help you plan your event: a copy of the Pick-Me- Up handbook, and a poster that you can use to help promote your event. There is a copy of a data card which should be completed after the clean-up to document all the material. For more information, visit www.nspickmeup.ca. May 2021 Page 5
Colchester Compost Giveaway
Due to Covid, last year’s compost giveaway was cancelled. Normally, free compost is available during Compost Awareness Week – the first full week in May. This year’s plan was to hold the giveaway for the entire month of May.
This year, residential property owners are permitted double the amount of free compost - 200kgs or six bags. Due to the Provincial Lockdown at the time of press, the free compost program will begin the day after restrictions are lifted. If you have previously made an appointment, please contact us with your information – address, telephone and/or email. We will be able to reschedule and contact you once the restrictions are lifted.
Compost can be purchased for $2/ bag (animal feed bag size - 21” x 41”) or $35/metric tonne all year long – when there are no public health restrictions in place.
All compost orders-free or purchased, require an appointment. To book an appointment, call 902-895-4777.
Household Hazardous Waste Disposal – Dates to Remember
Location: Clean Harbors, 640 MacElmon Road, Debert, Exit 13, Highway 104 2021 Remaining Dates: June 5th September 11th Hours of Operation: 9:00 am to 1:00 pm July 10th October 2nd This FREE service is for residents of the Municipality of Colchester and August 7th November 6th the Towns of Truro and Stewiacke.
Mark your Calendars! 2021 Mobile Household Hazardous Waste & Paper Shredding Events
June 12th – Mobile household hazardous waste event Industrial Building Parking Lot, Nova Scotia Provincial Exhibition Grounds, 73 Ryland Avenue, Bible Hill Hours of operation: 9:00 am to 1:00 pm.
June 26th – Paper Shredding Event Rath Eastlink Community Centre Parking Lot, 625 Abenaki Road, Truro Hours of operation: 9:00 am to 12:00 noon.
All participants are to remain in their vehicles. Staff will safely unload your materials.
Sharps Safety
The Materials Recovery Facility is continuing to find needles and lancets in the recycling material. It is very important that residents dispose of these items properly. They are never to go in the recycling or garbage. Please ask your local pharmacy for a “safe sharps” disposal container. These containers can be brought back to the pharmacy when full. PagePage 6 6 MunicipalityMunicipality of of Colchester Colchester
Stay Up to Date on Collection Changes When They Affect You
Make sure you are signed up for our service alert and reminder service! Check it out on our website at www.colchester.ca/garbage-and-recycling. Just enter your civic address and your customized calendar specific to your home address can be printed or synchronized with your own electronic calendar, and you can receive weekly reminders by phone, email or Twitter. Once signed up, we can instantly contact you when changes occur to collection in your area due to weather or other unforeseeable circumstances.
Smart Phone or Tablet user? Download our Colchester Waste Resource Management app for free on Apple and Android devices.
Don’t have a computer, printer, or smartphone? No Problem! Call us at 902-895-4777 and we will be happy to mail you out a customized calendar and/or set this service up for you.
Roadside Safety
A couple of items have been brought to our attention regarding material set out for curbside collection.
Please do not leave any items at the roadside that are not intended for disposal. If you are using an item to secure your bags such as crowbars, weights etc., please label that they are not garbage. If your barrel, plastic totes, or wheelbarrow are to be used for storage, please label that they are not garbage. Please ensure that any tools, lawn furniture, toys or bicycles that are not intended to be garbage are clearly stored away from the garbage collection area on collection day.
This is a busy time of year for our farmers and they are moving large pieces of equipment on our rural highways to access their properties. We would like to ask our residents to safely pull the green carts back off the roadside when not being collected. This will assist our farmers to safely navigate to their fields and ensure that your green carts and storage bins will not be damaged.
Bulky Item Collection
Did you know that because of Covid, the Spring Clean Up program has been improved? You can now place two large bulky items out on your regular garbage day, all year long! This has replaced the unsightly piles that were only collected on one scheduled day.
As a safety precaution, when placing a large window or other glass item at the curb, please package it safely. We want to ensure that you and the collector will be safe from any breakage and potential sharp edges. You can wrap glass in cardboard, paper, textiles or secure with duct tape. All material must be curbside by 7:00 am. MayMay 20212021 PagePage 7 7
Community Development
Home Energy Assessment Rebate Available Carbon-Free Colchester
You can receive a $50 rebate from the Municipality The Municipality of Colchester is planning for bold toward your Home Energy Assessment completed by climate action and a resilient future with its new Efficiency Nova Scotia. A Home Energy Assessment is Carbon-Free Colchester Community Energy & an evaluation of the efficiency of your home. A Emissions Plan. Staff are currently wrapping up contractor will spend 2-3 hours reviewing your home community engagement and stakeholder consultation, from attic to basement, evaluating air leakage, with assistance from Sustainability Solutions Group. insulation levels, and mechanical systems. You will be The Plan will lay out Colchester’s path to significantly given a report about your home’s energy use, reduce its greenhouse gas emissions over the next 10 opportunities for upgrades and will be eligible for up to to 30 years. $5,000 in rebates from Efficiency NS. Apply today at www.colchester.ca/home-assessment-program. In addition to environmental benefits, Carbon-Free Colchester will result in many economic and social benefits for the community, such as energy cost savings, more comfortable homes, green job creation, and more. Stay up to date by checking the Municipal website (www.colchester.ca), the Carbon-Free Colchester website (www.carbonfreecolchester.ca), municipal social media, and this newsletter in the coming months!
Solar Colchester
The Municipality’s solar panel financing program is open for applications! Solar panels can save you a lot of money on electricity, but the upfront cost can be high. Solar Colchester allows homeowners to finance the project and pay for your solar panels over time. Invest in clean energy today! For more
information, or to apply, visit www.colchester.ca/solar.
If you have questions about any of the above efficiency initiatives, please contact Joanna Burris at 902-897-3168 or [email protected].
Page 8 Municipality of Colchester Animal Control
Dogs Running At Large
This year in Colchester County we have had numerous complaints about dogs running at large. Dogs are considered running at large when they leave their property for any reason and are not under their owner’s complete control. Dogs running loose, or not being on a leash during walks, is an offence again the Dog By-law. A copy of this by-law can be found on our webpage at www.colchester.ca/administration/by-laws.
The Dog By-law applies to all dog owners in urban and rural areas and states that dogs are not permitted to run at large. When off your property, your dog must be on a leash and under your control at all times to ensure the safety of your pet and others around you. This includes our beautiful trails throughout the County. Not everyone loves your dog’s kisses as much as you do.
When a dog is let outside at home, it is up to the owner to make sure that the dog stays on its own property. You can accomplish this by either supervising your dog, tying them, or making sure they are in a fenced yard or kenneled.
It is important that owners of dogs understand they are responsible and liable for actions of their dog, even when it causes damage to another person or their property.
Just Say “No” to Those Big Brown Eyes!
There is no question that deer are beautiful animals and that an encounter with wildlife can be thrilling, but it is important to resist the urge to feed them. Encouraging them to hang around your neighbourhood is not only harmful to the deer, but is harmful to people, pets, and property as well. From disease, motor vehicle accidents, to chewed-up gardens, there are many reasons why feeding deer is not a good idea.
Help keep deer, and your neighbourhood, safe. Please do not feed the deer. May 2021 Page 9
Recreation Keep Current, Keep Moving!
It continues to be a time of change and adaptation. Keep up-to-date on what’s happening in recreation activities and programs in Colchester County by visiting our website at www.colchester.ca/recreation and following us on social media @MunColRec. Let’s keep moving through this season of change!
Please follow Colchester Recreation on Facebook and twitter for updates on the following events.
Funding Opportunities for Community Groups
Upcoming application deadlines:
Community Trail Funding Program - June 4, 2021 Community Park Funding Program – September 15, 2021 Funding for Insurance for Non-Profit Groups – October 22, 2021 Please visit www.colchester.ca/grants-and-funding for program details and application forms.
Colchester County Trails…Pathways to Active Adventures!
Adventures await on the terrific trails in Colchester County. With more than 150 km of walking and cycling trails to explore, our County has something for everyone. Walk to your heart’s content along the seacoast. Hike to waterfalls in the hills. Run like the wind through the park. Bike where train whistles used to blow. Stroll beside wonderful wetlands. Relax by the brook or the bay. Explore a new trail this summer! To plan your next trail adventure, visit www.colchester.ca/trails. When enjoying your trail adventures, please follow Public Health guidelines, stay on designated trails, and respect other trail users. Happy Trails!
Birdwatching along the Cobequid Trail in Old Barns
Be a Responsible Dog Owner
When enjoying parks and trails, please keep your dog on leash and remember to pick up after your dog. Page 10 Municipality of Colchester Municipal Regional Parks Now Open
Plan your visit today to one of the municipality’s regional parks. These day-use parks have picnic facilities, walking paths, playgrounds, and river or ocean views. Admission is free. For directions and more information, visit www.colchester.ca/parks-and-trails.
A hidden gem. A quiet, natural area. A beauti- ful park. These are some words we hear from people visiting Stewiacke River Park. Stroll with family on the walking trails. Sit under old growth pine and hemlock trees. Enjoy views of the river, spring wildflowers, birds and other wildlife. Bring a picnic to share at one of several shelters beside the river. Take the kids to the playground in the heart of the park. This park A quiet place to sit and enjoy the river at also features river access. Stewiacke River Park…discover its nature! Stewiacke River Park.
Situated beside Tatamagouche Bay, this park is a great place to spend an after- noon. Explore the walking trails through the forest and along the shore. Enjoy a picnic and the view. Stop and smell the flowers in the garden near the shore. The kids will enjoy the playground and open space. We are pleased to announce the opening of the new washrooms for the Each of the regional parks has a large picnic 2021 season. Bring your bicycle and ride along the Butter Trail (part shelter, like this one at Nelson Memorial Park. of The Great Trail) to Tatamagouche or the Sutherland Steam Mill Museum in Denmark. Nelson Memorial Park…yours to explore!
Enjoy a picnic and the panoramic view of the tidal Salmon River as it reaches Cobequid Bay. Have fun with the kids at the natural playground. Stretch your legs by walking or cycling the nearby Cobequid Trail. Talk to friendly staff at the Visitor Centre (May to October) to get tidal bore and tide times along with information on area attractions and things to do. Finish your day with a tranquil view and extraordinary sunset. Fundy Discovery Site…be moved by the world’s highest tides. The Fundy Discovery Site playground is inspired by the Bay of Fundy. May 2021 Page 11
Five Islands Lighthouse Park is a coastal park with a View from Five Islands Lighthouse Park, part of the Cliffs of Fundy UNESCO Global Geopark. spectacular view of the Five Islands in the Bay of Fundy, home of the world's highest tides. Home to a historic lighthouse (closed until further notice), the park has areas for picnicking, fun and relaxation. Stroll with your family along the beach, or sail away on the ship playground. Take in the panoramic view of the Minas Basin - on a clear day you can see all five islands, the Old Wife (part of Five Islands Provincial Park), the Brothers (Two Islands), Cape Blomidon and Cape Split. Five Islands Lighthouse Park…a view that changes with the tide!
Volunteer Appreciation Awards
Municipality of Colchester & Town of Truro Volunteer Appreciation Awards Thank you to all volunteers for your dedication and service to your community. Your efforts are very appreciated and do not go unnoticed! Congratulations to all recipients of the 2021 Volunteer Appreciation Awards!
Provincial Volunteer Award Congratulations to Crystal Blair who was selected by the Municipality of Colchester as the 2021 Volunteer of the Year and is our 2021 Provincial Volunteer representative. Crystal Blair, Municipality of Colchester 2021 Provincial Volunteer Representative
Provincial Volunteer Representatives: 2020 - Municipality of Colchester - Kelly Countway 2020 - Town of Truro - Jax Gaudet Royal Pettigrew Recreation Leadership Award: 2021 - Municipality of Colchester – Crystal Blair Mike Forbes 2021 - Town of Truro – Glenn MacKinnon
Individual Volunteer Awards: Youth Volunteer Award: Community Group Volunteer Awards: Jessica Frenette Mataya Veno The Willow Lodge Bingo Volunteers Nigel Leggett Delani Underwood Ladies Auxiliary of the North River Fire Brigade John Corlett (posthumous) Five Islands Volunteer Fire Brigade Anita MacLellan Betty Byers Amanda Weatherby Family Volunteer Awards: Corporate/Small Business Awards: Leanne Roberts James & Kristelle Campbell Chris & Wendy MacLean - Fulton Pharmacy Doug MacInnes & Family Tatamagouche Stacey Culgin Wayne & Linda Mingo Dexter Rundle-Woolcock - Dexter’s Butcher Sherry Alexander Allen & Laurie Treen Block Harold “Butch” Borden Jol & Maura Hunter Diane’s Restaurant – Five Islands Municipality of Colchester
1 Church Street Truro, Nova Scotia B2N 3Z5
www.colchester.ca
Toll Free (in NS): 72 Hours – Are You Prepared? 1-866-728-5144 Emergency Management personnel strongly encourage citizens to be prepared Reception - 902-897-3160, to take care of yourself and your family for at least 72 Hours after an emergency 902-897-3150, 902-897-3175 or disaster occurs. This timeframe is critical as it can take emergency response Administration Tax Office agencies time to reach you. The best way to be prepared is to remember these 3 Public Works key points:
Community Development - 902-897-3170 1. Know Your Risks. As residents of your community, you are familiar with Building Inspection the events that are possible in your area. Whether your region is Development Officer Animal Control susceptible to flooding, extended power outages, hurricanes, Planning transportation accidents or another event, it is always best to know what the risks in your community are.
Property Information - 902-897-3178
Colchester Recreation - 902-897-3185 2. Make a Plan. Every household should have some type of emergency plan. [email protected] These plans can be created in as little as 20 minutes and are the best way
Materials Recovery Facility and to ensure that the people in the household know what to do when an Regional Balefill Facility - 902-897-0450 emergency strikes. Emergency plans often contain household safety
Waste & Recycling Helpline: plans, plans for your pets, plans for special health needs and emergency 902-895-4777 contacts. [email protected] 3. Prepare Emergency Kits. These kits should have the basic needs to Fax Numbers sustain your household for that crucial first 72 hours. A basic kit should
Courthouse Building include at least 2 litres of water per day per person, foods that do not spoil, a copy of your emergency plan, contact information, a battery or Administration - 902-843-4066 windup radio and flashlight, extra keys for the vehicles and house, cash Community Development - 902-843-4061 (smaller bills and change), first aid kit, cell phone chargers, and a manual Finance / Tax Office - 902-843-4067 can opener if you use canned goods. This kit should be stored in a Human Resources - 902-843-4063 location where everyone knows where to find it. Note: food and water Information Services - 902-843-4068 need to be replaced annually. Property Information - 902-843-4062
Engineering/Public Works - 902-843-4064 Once you have your family’s emergency kit ready, consider preparing an Recreation Services - 902-843-4065 emergency kit for your vehicles and your pets.
External Locations If you would like more information on how to be prepared, please visit https://
Materials Recovery Facility/ www.getprepared.gc.ca/cnt/rsrcs/pblctns/yprprdnssgd/index-en.aspx. Waste Reduction - 902-897-0453
Regional Balefill Facility - 895-2307